Federal and local authorities are examining what they classify as a hate crime following the discovery of antisemitic vandalism and multiple vehicles destroyed by intentionally set fires in Clayton, Missouri. Fox News reported that investigators believe a resident was specifically targeted in the Tuesday morning attack.
American IDF soldier targeted in 'HORRIFIC antisemitic attack' – DOJ
Attackers torched cars and sprayed 'Death to the IDF' outside his home in Clayton, Missouri
Is this a hate crime? pic.twitter.com/vm9o2CbX44
— RT (@RT_com) August 5, 2025
Clayton Police Department officers arrived at the scene around 3:00 a.m. Tuesday, after receiving reports of vehicle fires, according to Fox News. The responding officers found that three automobiles had sustained fire damage from what investigators determined was an intentionally ignited blaze.
No injuries were documented in connection with the incident, though officers located antisemitic graffiti written on a city street near St. Louis, Fox News stated. Authorities have classified the episode as a hate crime based on preliminary findings suggesting the victim was deliberately chosen.
(Photo: AFP/Eduardo Munoz Alvarez) AFP
The FBI and St. Louis Regional Bomb and Arson Unit dispatched personnel to the location to support the ongoing investigation. Local television station First Alert 4 captured drone footage of the vandalism, which reportedly displayed the message "Death to the IDF," with portions of the text directed at a specific individual.
Clayton Mayor Bridget McAndrew characterized the incident as "an offensive and violent act of arson" that targeted a Clayton resident. "We will not tolerate harassment, intimidation, or violence based on someone's nationality, race, religion, or ideology," she stated in a Facebook post. "In Clayton, we are committed to fostering a community where every resident feels safe, valued, and welcome."
"This is not just an aspiration—it is our responsibility as neighbors and as citizens," McAndrew continued. "As such, I call upon all Clayton residents to join me in embracing the principles of respect, understanding, and inclusion that define who we are as a community."
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Please refer to the attached news release for an update on the Investigation into a Suspicious Fire and Hate Crime in the 7500 block of Westmoreland this morning. Additional information will be shared as it becomes available. pic.twitter.com/nHXA2kSU8Z
— Clayton Missouri Police Department (@ClaytonMOPD) August 5, 2025
Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon announced on X that she had received briefings regarding the reported "car bombings" in St. Louis and alleged antisemitic vandalism. "Our office intends to hold the perpetrators accountable for these violent acts," she declared.
The Jewish Federation of St. Louis condemned the attacks. "As American Jewish organizations and proud St. Louisans, we condemn in the strongest terms the attack on members of our community last night," the federation stated. "This is more than vandalism; it is a hateful act of intimidation and only the latest example of what happens when antisemitic and anti-Israel rhetoric are normalized."
